Becoming Catholic

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults follows a series of stages and rites in which a person deepens their relationship with the Catholic Christian Community. Three sacraments are required for a person to be a fully initiated member of the Catholic Christian Church: Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. The RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) assists non-baptized persons to join the community of Catholic Christians. It is also open to those Christians, baptized in other faiths, who wish to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church.

The process is a journey in which the parish community prepares candidates for the reception of the sacraments by catechesis, sponsorship and prayer. The commitment required is 1 1/2 hours per week, plus reading and reflection time. It is an enjoyable and informative program. It also involves regular attendance at the Sunday Eucharist and the celebration of some Rites in the midst of the faith community. Candidates are expected to embrace a lifestyle that is in keeping with the teaching of the Catholic Church throughout the formation process. Suitability for admission to the RCIA is determined through an initial interview with the pastor. Ongoing conversion is also a requirement.

Catechists and Sponsors for RCIA

Catechists make a commitment of 1 1/2 hours per week, from September until Easter and they should have some knowledge of the adult faith learning process, as well as a basic knowledge of the Catholic faith. Sponsors support the candidates on their faith journey and are encouraged to attend all sessions with the candidate. Each candidate must have a sponsor. These may be the choice of the candidate, with the approval of the pastor, or someone from the parish. See also Sacramental Preparation Ministry

Children’s Catechetical Program

Volunteers work with the parish priest to assist children in public schools to learn about their faith. This program is also for children of catechetical age (8 or higher) who are preparing to celebrate sacraments of initiation. For further information or inquiries, please contact the parish priest or the pastoral worker. Children in grade three follow a model of preparation based on the RCIA model referred to as the Rites of Christian Initation of Children (RCIC).

Catechetical Correspondence Course

This course is offered for children from kindergarten to grade 12 and is designed particularly for those attending the public school system or are home schooled. Lessons are mailed to the parents who work with the children and mail or bring lessons in to be marked. Children in these situations should be enrolled in the program throughout their school years. For information, please contact our pastoral assistant or the pastor.

About Assumption Parish

Our Lady of the Assumption Parish is in the Diocese of Hamilton in Ontario, Canada. This parish serves Upper Stoney Creek, Hannon and Binbrook, Ontario.